Idol Announces Final Three

America’s favorite singing pageant is one step closer to crowning a winner, as Fox’s American Idol bid farewell to Jason Castro and announced the final three contestants for Season 7. Let’s take a look at the finalists.

David Archuleta

There’s no question the boy can sing, but for all the strengths he has vocally it’s unfortunate that he lacks the personality to back them. It could be immaturity or lack of confidence, which seems unlikely considering his previous television history as a performer on Star Search. Still the kiddies love him, Simon loves him, and we would love him too if he didn’t come across as though he just fell off the short bus. This week’s song choices were clearly his best to date. If he stays on track, no doubt he will pull off a big win. Likelihood of winning: High

Sayesha Mercado

If there were an award given to the Most Improved Idol contestant, this girl would have it hands down. Each week she has brought it to the table by not only improving her vocals,but also letting her personality shine through her performance. Her song selection choices have been right-on since day one, and despite the negative comments from the judges she gets better and better. It was difficult to watch her break down in tears as Randy’s comments ripped her apart; especially after a performance that was arguably her personal best, as confirmed by Paula and Simon’s comments. Likelihood of winning: Low

David Cook

He may have stolen our hearts with his brooding rendition of Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean, but this cool cat is no Mr. Congeniality. Who would have known that he swiped all those super-suave song arrangements from the Internet? Still he remains one of our favorites, his consistent style standing out above the rest. There is never the fear that he will butcher a musical classic, only the anticipation of how good his rendition of a might be, no matter who threw it together. Likelihood of winning: Medium